The Ferrari F355 A Timeless Classic Gets a Modern Makeover

The F355's 40-valve motor is legendary, known for being one of the finest-sounding combustion engines ever created. Many F355s came with an open-gated manual transmission, a rarity in the early days of paddle shift gearboxes. As we celebrate 30 years since its launch and 25 years since the last model was produced, there's no better time to honor one of Ferrari's prettiest Berlinettas. The F355, a significant upgrade from the 348, is relatively simple by modern standards and stands to gain greatly from advancements in tire, brake, and suspension technology.

The target market for this restomod includes millennials who grew up dreaming about the F355, thanks to its praise from automotive icons like Jeremy Clarkson, its star turn in the movie Goldeneye, and its feature in the SEGA F355 Challenge game. Now, those same enthusiasts, especially the wealthy ones, are likely to covet an Evoluto build.

Evoluto Automobili's design ethos for the F355 remains true to the original. Though details were scarce at the time of writing, input from Callum Designs (noted for their work on the R-Reforged Vanquish) hints at thoughtful modernization. Key elements like the iconic pop-up headlights now feature LEDs, including daytime running lights. The car boasts a new front end for improved cooling, larger wheels, and a "more muscular physique" that enhances the original's look while hinting at the power beneath.

The Evoluto F355 is more than just a facelift. The donor chassis sees a 23% increase in torsional stiffness through carbon fusing, strengthening hard points, and reducing flex. Carbon fiber body panels reduce the car's weight to 1,250kg. An all-new electronic architecture, developed in-house by Evoluto, promises enhanced reliability and performance, making maintenance simpler than the original—a welcome improvement for anyone familiar with older Italian electrics.

Evoluto aims for a "Peak Analogue driving experience" with this restomod. Enhancements include a more tactile six-speed manual transmission, upgraded Brembo brake components (with a ceramic option), and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, allowing drivers to fully explore the dynamics of the revised chassis. The suspension, while not fully detailed yet, has been tuned for better handling and stability, likely featuring high-end aftermarket components.

Inside, the Evoluto F355 promises bespoke options and luxurious materials, possibly including modern conveniences like CarPlay. However, the real attraction lies under the hood. The original 3.5-liter V8 now produces 420hp, up from 380hp, thanks to over 200 new or redesigned engine parts. These upgrades include coil-on-plug ignition, a CNC ported head, larger inlet valves, solid cam lifters, a new inlet cam, and an improved quill shaft for reduced vibration and better reliability. The titanium exhaust system, with equal-length headers, enhances both performance and sound, promising an emotional acoustic profile.

Evoluto plans to produce just 55 of these meticulously crafted F355s. A prototype will be on display at the Festival of Speed, with a US debut at Monterey to follow. While the cost will vary based on individual specifications, expect it to be substantial. A good donor F355 starts at around £90k, and the additional costs of carbon panels forged wheels, and high-end components will add up. However, the potential for a truly extraordinary restomod is clear, and the excitement is palpable.

The Ferrari F355 by Evoluto is poised to blend the charm of a classic with the performance and reliability of a modern supercar. Enthusiasts and collectors alike eagerly await to see if this ambitious project will live up to its promise.